Formation of Well-Aligned Thin Films of Rod-Like Nanoparticles via Solvent Evaporation: A Simulation Study

摘要

Thin film formation from a suspension of rod-like nanoparticles via solvent evaporation was studied by simulation. Two types of initial nanoparticle configurations were examined. From a suspension of randomly oriented rod-like nanoparticles, a thin film with various domains and a rough surface was obtained after solvent evaporation. On the other hand, when particles were strongly charged, they spontaneously aligned in suspension, resulting in a well-aligned thin film with a smooth surface after complete drying. In addition to the initial configuration of nanoparticles in a suspension, the vertical capillary force plays an important role in the formation of these thin films.